Changes are coming to local government in New Zealand
The Government is looking at making councils simpler, including reducing the number of councils and creating larger ones that handle both regional and local services.
Recent information suggests regional councils, like Bay of Plenty Regional Council, may no longer exist in their current form after 2028. This means local councils need to start thinking now about what the future could look like and talk with their communities.
For Ōpōtiki and the East Coast, this raises some important questions. People may wonder how services will be delivered, how their community will be represented, and where decision-making responsibilities will sit in the years ahead.
There are a few different options being considered. Some would keep decision-making close to local communities, while others would involve larger councils covering bigger areas. Each option has pros and cons, including impacts on local representation, service delivery, infrastructure investment, efficiency, and community identity.
No decisions have been made yet.
Council wants to hear from the community about what matters most as these changes are considered.
While final decisions will be made by central government, it’s important that the voices of Ōpōtiki and the Eastern Bay are heard.
Why we’re asking for your feedback now
In May 2026, the Government introduced a new process called “Head Start”, which allows councils to put forward ideas for how local government could change.
Councils have until 9 August 2026 to share their initial proposals if they want to be part of this process.
This is an early opportunity for councils to suggest what they think would work best for their communities—before the Government steps in and makes decisions later on.
To take part, proposals need to involve at least two councils. Even councils that don’t fully agree may still be included in a proposal.
If councils choose not to take part now, current arrangements will stay in place until after the 2028 local elections. After that, the Government is expected to step in and decide on changes through a “Backstop” process.
What We Know
- The Government is leaning towards larger councils that combine regional and local services
- Bay of Plenty Regional Council, as it is now, is expected to end after 2028
- Councils have a short window to help shape what comes next
- Changes to local government are coming
What We Don’t Know Yet
- The full costs and financial impacts of each option
- Exactly how councils would be structured and represented
- The final laws that will guide these changes
- Whether future governments will keep the same plans and timing
What Happens If We Don’t Get Involved
If councils and communities don’t take part now, future decisions could be made without much local input.
Some proposals can move forward if they are supported by enough councils or people in a region, even if not everyone agrees.
If councils can’t come to an agreement, the Government may step in after 2028 and decide for us. That’s why it’s important for Ōpōtiki and the Eastern Bay to be part of the conversation now.
Why Your Voice Matters
These changes will shape how services are delivered, how communities are represented, and how decisions are made in the future.
While the Government will make the final call, your feedback helps Council understand what matters most and speak up for our community.
We encourage everyone to have their say and help shape the future of our region.
Kōrero mai |
Have Your Say
Council acknowledges that these discussions are significant and may create uncertainty for some members of the community.
No formal decisions have been made, and there will be further opportunities for engagement and discussion as this exploratory work progresses.
Your feedback will help Council understand community priorities, concerns, and aspirations as we consider how best to respond to the Government’s proposed local government reforms.
